We know who will be the next Chief of the New Orleans Police. Mayor LaToya Cantrell named a native of the Lower 9th Ward to take over the NOPD after leading two districts and the training academy.
"Commander Shaun Ferguson is a man that I met as a community leader right here in the city of New Orleans," the mayor told reporters. "Fair, firm and friendly. Known and supported by our community."
Ferguson said that through 21 years on the force and commanding two districts before taking over the police academy; he is ready to lead the NOPD.
"I know what is needed to get the job done by being an officer with the boots on the ground," he explained. "Our successes such as strong discipline will continue to be a priority. Accountability will be a high priority for our department as well."
He takes over Friday, January 18th.
"I am from the community as a graduate of O. Perry Walker, as a graduate of Southern University of New Orleans receiving my bachelor's as well as my master's degree," Ferguson said. "I was raised in the Lower 9th Ward and then moved to Algiers. This has cultivated me to have the respect of the city's diversities and uniqueness."
Ferguson has the blessing of departing chief Michael Harrison as he leaves for Baltimore.
Reaction to the announcement has been largely positive. Mayor Cantrell says she didn't need a search committee or a national search because she has spent so much time on the council and transitioning to be mayor, the she knew who should be the next NOPD leader.
Watch the full news conference...